Erin Gilmour, RP, CCAC

Erin Gilmour View Specialties



Hi there, 
I am a Registered Psychotherapist that specializes in Eating Disorders, Addictions and Perinatal Mental Health. Each of these areas have impacted my life in unique and important ways, and have inspired me to work alongside individuals facing these struggles in a way that offers depth and understanding.
 
Perinatal Mental Health: This is such a special and sometimes challenging time in a person's life, and can also be isolating and unfamiliar.
My journey into perinatal mental health began my own experience becoming a mother, and the struggle with anxiety that dominated my  conception, pregnancy and postpartum experience. I was shocked to see the lack of support available to new parents, and also surprised that as a therapist I wasn't more informed or prepared for what might happen to me during this time. I was inspired to learn more and help others, and have since focused my training and experience in perinatal mental health,  perinatal grief and loss, as well as fertility challenges.
I understand the rollercoaster of emotions that can accompany pregnancy and early parenthood, and I am here to walk alongside you with empathy and understanding. Together, we will work collaboratively to develop a plan that empowers you to build resilience, coping skills, and a strong support network.  If you are looking for a friendly, compassionate, and evidence-based approach to navigating the challenges of pregnancy and early parenthood, therapy can help you thrive, not just survive early parenthood.
 
Addictions: I began my career in addictions specific work, and those who struggle with substance use or addictive behaviours will always inspire and motivate me. I am a Certified Canadian Addictions Counsellor, with substantive training in the evidence based modalities most effective for treating addiction. The most important thing however, is that I firmly and fully believe that recovery is possible for all those who experience addictive behaviours, and that connection is often the most important element in finding a firm footing in a recovery plan that is authentic and lasting. If you are sick and tired of feeling sick and tired, don't recognize yourself anymore or feel desperate to change patterns that are no longer working for you, therapy can and does help. My addiction services also include support and referral to treatment and community supports if requested. 
 
Eating Disorders:
 Eating disorders and struggles with body image show up in our relationship with food, and very quickly begin to impact our relationships with self and others. Eating disorders are incredibly consuming and challenging to live with, although the alternative feels so scary. My approach to supporting people with Eating Disorders comes from a place of understanding, compassion and seeking to address the symptoms as well as the underlying emotions, thoughts and trauma that contributes to disordered eating. I take an anti-oppressive approach and realize that eating challenges impact everyone in different ways. I am trained in CBT-E and IFS, and use a combination of skills and strategies to support people on their journey to a new relationship with their body. 
 

What to expect in session:
-Nervous system regulation strategies
-Validation, normalization and information
-Linkage to community supports
-Breathing exercises, meditation and grounding skills
-Deeper exploration using IFS, ACT, CBT and Somatic Experiencing
-Warmth, support and gentle guidance
-Laughter and levity
-Shared experiences
-Communication strategies
-Self-care plans that include baby
-Grief and loss work 
 
Therapy can be a safe space to be heard, validated, challenged and supported in moving forward towards a life that feels in alignment with your values, desires and core self. 
 
If there is a part of you that feels called to connect, but are unsure about what therapy might look like for you-please feel free to reach out for a free 20 minute consult to explore your questions and learn more about working with a therapist. 
 
 
 
 
 


Erin Gilmour Reaches

Whitby ON